Thanksgiving weekend is over. Have a good handle on Christmas shopping as I started that back in August. This years mantra…..less is more. sincerity, home made, local, love. these things speak volumes. Wishes for more sweet moments with our loved ones. time… wishes for time with special folks. our folks. our kids. our loves. furry puddles of love on our beds. smiling faces. give more to others that we don't need. donate what we are not using so that others may have warmth and rest from worries and weariness. quality. made in America. wishes for close to home. and for others to look at the recycle/upcycle, reuse, vintage fun we find along our path…. have had our favorite shopping experiences to date at thrift stores from Boston University's Goodwill, to Second-Time-Around on Charles and Newbury Streets, Goodwill's on our travels and great thrift stores we found this summer in Balston Spa, NY, as we searched out the area for colleges. fun, fun, fun. Most of my sparkly girl's school uniform came from the Teen Exchange, although not enough people utilized  this important resource and it has gone out of business. used, tire, plastic bottles…. it's all good. even if it's just us. We love it, although it would be better if you'd come along with us and we'll show you just how fun this is. and … It has begun. the holiday frenzy. There it is…. the onslaught of ads, emails, visuals everywhere. I am going to be the most careful yet. not to over buy, spend, or spread the not useful. I am pledging it here. Just want to spread my commitment. useful and love are my words for the emerging holiday season…. simplicity